CJI Flags Concerns Over AI Bias Against Poor

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Wednesday flagged concerns over bias in artificial intelligence, stating that emerging reports indicate discrimination against the poor, and emphasised that social justice remains central to an equitable society.

Speaking at the 8th Dinkar Memorial Lecture on “Rashmirathi: The Epic of Social Justice” organised by NGO Respect India, he said the principles of equality and human dignity were reflected in the works of Ramdhari Singh Dinkar even before they were embedded in the Constitution.

Highlighting concerns over technology, he said reports suggest that artificial intelligence systems can exhibit discriminatory tendencies.

Recalling his early years, the Chief Justice said he was encouraged to read writers such as Munshi Premchand, Suryakant Tripathi Nirala, Harivansh Rai Bachchan and Mahadevi Varma, whose works inspired social thought and reform.

He said literature during the freedom movement provided both solace and a sense of change, adding that law should similarly serve people. Referring to Dinkar’s work, he said it underscores social equality and harmony, values also reflected in the legal system.

The Chief Justice noted that Dinkar was conferred the title ‘Rashtrakavi’ by Mahatma Gandhi, and said his writings reflected the aspirations and struggles of the nation.

“In a democracy, equality, dignity and social harmony are essential. Merely passing laws is not enough unless every individual is treated with dignity and respect,” he said.

He said inequalities persist decades after Dinkar’s writings and stressed that social justice must remain foundational to governance and society.

The event was attended by Supreme Court Bar Association president Vikas Singh and Lok Sabha MP Manoj Tiwari, who was conferred the ‘Dinkar Sanskriti Samman’. Supreme Court judge P B Varale was also present.

Organisers said the lecture aimed to connect literary thought with contemporary legal and social issues.